Bigger than a Building: Celebrating a Team that will Inspire the Future

Josh Estes brings a blend of performance, leadership, and institutional expertise to his work. Before beginning his career at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in 2003, he worked as a stand-up comedian and improvisational performer—experience that continues to shape his engaging, audience-centered approach. Over more than 20 years at the Museum, Josh has held a variety of leadership roles within the Interpretation Department, including Master Interpreter, Dinosphere Manager, and Gallery Interpretation Manager. His work has consistently focused on connecting people to ideas through meaningful, memorable experiences. In 2020, Josh was promoted as the Director of Volunteer Services. In this role, he has led significant organizational change, including the successful transition of the college internship program to a fully paid model, the expansion of the high school internship program, and the launch of an innovative Group Volunteer program. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to accessibility, workforce development, and the future of learning-focused institutions.